Risk Factors

Symptoms

Blisters may cause:

Fluid-filled bump on the skin, which is often round

Fluid is usually clear, but may be bloody, cloudy, or containing pus

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Blisters may be diagnosed on appearance. The cause can be determined by the activity you were doing when the blisters appeared.

Treatment

A blister will often heal without treatment. You may need treatment for a condition that is causing the blisters.

Some general tips for treatment include:

Protect the Area

Be gentle with the injured area. To prevent further injury, use a bandage made for blisters. Also, put a cushion around the blister to protect it. The blister should begin to shrink in about seven days.

Do not pop or lance the blister. Opening the blister increases the chance of infection and delays healing.

Do not scratch any blisters. If it is infectious, scratching may spread the infection. It also puts others at risk for getting the infection. Try over-the-counter medication that is applied to the skin to relieve any itching or discomfort. If you still have problems with the blisters, call your doctor.

Wash the Area

If the blister is closed, gently wash the area with soap and water. Apply a bandage to protect it.

If the blister is open, gently wash the area, apply an antibiotic ointment, and then cover it with a sterile dressing or bandage.

See Your Doctor If:

A blister usually heals by itself. See your doctor if:

The blister is unusually large—bigger than a nickel

The blister is in a sensitive area, such as on the face or the groin

The blister is associated with a burn

There are signs of infection, such as increasing redness around the blister, red streaks, severe swelling, pus drainage, fever, or an increase in pain

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of getting blisters, take these steps:

Wear shoes that fit properly.

Always wear socks with your shoes.

Wear sports socks when exercising or participating in sports.

Use gloves or protective padding when working with tools.

Wear a hat, protective clothing, and sunscreen when out in the sun.

Wear sandals in public showers to protect your feet from athlete's foot.

Wear long shirts and pants when working outside to protect yourself from poison ivy.

RESOURCES

American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.aad.org

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
http://www.niams.nih.gov

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.